Cell elasticity is regulated by the tropomyosin isoform composition of the actin cytoskeleton.

ABSTRACT: The actin cytoskeleton is the primary polymer system within cells responsible for regulating cellular stiffness. While various actin binding proteins regulate the organization and dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton, the proteins responsible for regulating the mechanical properties of cells are still not fully understood. In the present study, we have addressed the significance of the actin associated protein, tropomyosin (Tpm), in influencing the mechanical properties of cells. Tpms belong to a multi-gene family that form a co-polymer with actin filaments and differentially regulate actin filament stability, function and organization. Tpm isoform expression is highly regulated and together with the ability to sort to specific intracellular sites, result in the generation of distinct Tpm is

SUBMITTER: Jalilian I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4433179 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature